NCC First Support - Northern

At the time of the inspection there were 139 people who used the service who received personal care. Norfolk First Support-Northern provides a reablement service to people who may have been discharged from hospital, or who are recovering from illness or injury. People typically receive support for up to six weeks, and sometimes longer to help them with becoming more independent.

Risks in relation to people's individual needs had not always been assessed, and risk assessments which were in place were not always sufficiently detailed. Staff understood their responsibilities in relation to keeping people safe; and knew how to report any concerns.

Assessments of people's needs were undertaken once they had started using the service, this had led to some complications where care packages had to be revised, or additional support being requested from healthcare professionals. Staff took appropriate action in relation to these incidents.

Staff supported people to take their medicines in a safe way, but records relating to medicines could be more detailed. Staff adhered to the current guidelines in relation to infection prevention and were part of a testing programme which was in place at the time of the inspection.

Not all staff had completed their required training, however, people felt staff were well trained and staff were able to demonstrate through our conversations they understood people's individual needs.

People's consent was sought by staff when delivering care. People were supported to have maximum choice and control of their lives and staff supported them in the least restrictive way possible and in their best interests; the policies and systems in the service supported this practice.

The management and staff worked in partnership with people, their relatives and healthcare professionals to achieve good outcomes for people. People's care was reviewed regularly, and care plans updated where people's care needs changed.

People were supported by staff who upheld their dignity and promoted their independence.